Design woes.
I can’t decide on a layout for this site. I’ve moved everything around in every conceivable way, so tonight, I’m just going to go back to my regular two column layout, with a few new graphics here and there. Le sigh (that’s French for *sigh*).
I dont’ know how how the cool people do it. So yeah, once again, like so very many times before, I’m just kinda stuck on how this site should look. I was very happy with it at first, but now I’m getting bored, and I’m not quite sure how to remedy it.
I just feel like my blog isn’t fascinating. I believe the visuals should draw one in to its content and make people want to stay and explore, but I don’t have the know-how to make such a design. Is it color? Is it layout? Pictures? Graphics? Video?
So I’m not sure what I’m going to do as the ultimate answer to my constant question of the right layout and design for me. In the meantime I am going to revert to the original design, and keep on pondering. I’d love to hear any tips that any of you may have.
May 5th, 2007 @ 7:56 am
Assuming you began with the bones of a concept you found pleasing, you then changed it up to better suit a vague idea of an end result. Take a look at similarly styled blogs for inspiration - http://veerle.duoh.com/ - for instance. See how the elements are broken - not all visuals or text are grouped, but rather interspersed throughout? It seems the sort of thing you may be going for. Consider color and contrast, then make a list of the elements you wish to include - drawings, your free web icons, little flourishes, photos, logo, archive list, etc. With this list in mind, plan out your “blocks” for these elements on “paper” until you find the balance and synergy you seek. Once you have chosen the colors and placement, getting it there will likely be easier than you think. This idea of loosely balanced “blocks”makes it easier for those who become easily bored — a block of photos could easily become a featured art section, a link list, tutorials; a header and colors switched for a whole new look. Using a “blocked” layout leaves room to keep things fresh and new. Just a thought, of course, and from someone who knows nothing of design, no less. :)